ASNT Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Practice Test

What type of charge do alpha particles possess?

1. Neutral charge

2. Negative charge

3. Positive charge

4. Varies depending on the environment

The correct answer is: Positive charge

Alpha particles are composed of two protons and two neutrons, which makes them essentially helium nuclei. Due to the presence of the two positively charged protons, alpha particles themselves carry a positive charge. This distinct characteristic plays a crucial role in their interactions with other materials and their behavior in various environments. In contrast to other subatomic particles, alpha particles are not neutral or negatively charged; their positive charge contributes to their relatively strong interaction with matter and the high energy they can impart when they collide with other atoms. This property is important in fields such as radiography and radiation safety, where understanding the behavior of different types of radiation is essential for handling radioactive materials safely and minimizing exposure to harmful radiation. The notion that the charge could vary depending on the environment is not applicable to alpha particles, as their charge is inherent and does not change. Thus, identifying that alpha particles possess a positive charge is fundamental for anyone working with or studying radiation.